As usual, the discussion has moved from opinions of the NRA to opinions of guns in general and even of specific types of guns.

We have several issues at once: 1)Should ANY guns be allowed to the public at large? (those who are not members of law enforcement, etc.)
2)If they are, WHO may own a firearm?, 3)What kinds of firearms may they own? 4)Since the laws currently do allow 'some' people to possess guns, how should those laws be enforced and registration be managed? 5)finally, is the NRA being reasonable in the ways they act in promotion, education and lobbying in relation to firearms?
It may even be that some of these issues have sub-issues.

I will comment here about a number of recent posts on the issue of whether the fact that guns sometimes, prevent crime.
*IF* someone like Kendall...or Big Mick were the only sort who had carry permits, or kept handguns 'handy', I would not worry...but that's not how it works.
1)There are people who, although not criminals or inclined to commit crimes, STILL should not have guns of any kind. Even if YOU favor legal ownership, you know people who should never handle a firearm. (This may mean those who are too old, infirm or psychologically not able to..or those whose attitude makes them dangerous, whether or not they have even been in trouble).
2)*IF* many people are unable or unwilling to keep firearms, what is the procedure for protecting them from crime...or accidents? A society where only a small % of the populace is 'protected' is little different than one where none are! Even if some program of 'manditory' training were instituted, YOU know people who should not be expected to protect themselves with guns.
3)There ARE countries and areas where it is NOT common to have crimes committed with guns. What are the differences between them and the USA?
4)Since we know the current situation *IS* that many guns...legal and illegal...are available, is it even possible to alter that situation if we desired?

I am beginning to drift...but there are, of course, other issues, such as ammunition, education, laws, reasonable punishment for infractions, causes of increasing violence...etc....

It simply ain't easy! NO single position is 'right'...and those who ignore the sub-issues in order to defend one are kidding thenselves.